Biological and Psychological Health Effect of Ramadan Study

Overview

This observational study collects data on blood neurotransmitter and neuromodulator levels of subjects observing Ramadan. Additional information collected are a diet record, mood and perceived stress using validated surveys at three time points: a) before starting Ramadan, b) at the midpoint evaluation, and c) at the end of Ramadan. Three additional dispositional factors collected at the beginning and at the end are: a) sense of belonging, b) purpose in life (sense of coherence), and c) empathy (interpersonal reactivity index). The subjects are also individually interviewed on their experience of Ramadan as narrative data.

This is an observational study seeking research volunteers during Ramadan in the Pacific Northwest. We plan to recruit 10 female and 5 male volunteers. Each subject will donate her/his blood (20 milliliters) at three time points: a) before initiation of Ramadan, b) 14 days later, and c) 30 days later (60 milliliters total over one month). Because the dates of Ramadan in 2021 occur on April 12th through May 11th, the three days of the blood collection will be April 10th, April 27th and May 11th ± 1 day. Due to current COVID-19 restrictions, mass gatherings at mosque do not happen. This study deploys a mobile phlebotomist who is a licensed healthcare practitioner who will set up a droplet barrier phlebotomy station. The time of phlebotomy is determined based on the hydration status of each individual. The specimens will be packed in an ice cooler and processed (centrifuged and divided into aliquots) at Bastyr University Tierney laboratory and stored in a -80 degree Celsius freezer until analyzed at the same time for the three time points. Narrative data will also be collected through individual conversations (phone or in-person) at the completion of Ramadan, reflecting on the study and any heightened sense of spirituality.

Conditions

Interventions

Eligibility

Locations (1)

Outcomes

Central Contacts